A project helping to tackle loneliness and feelings of isolation in Shropshire鈥檚 rural communities has received a welcome boost from our My Community Fund.听
The grant from 糖心传媒 will help Shrewsbury-based charity, Community Resource continue their much-needed 鈥楤uddy鈥� support scheme that pairs trained volunteers with individuals requiring additional support to become socially or physically active.听
Research carried out by the charity found that, in a county where more than 79,000 people are over the age of 65, the lasting impact of the Covid-19 pandemic has made loneliness and isolation an even more pressing issue, especially in rural communities.听
Its latest project aims to alleviate isolation, improve mental health, boost confidence and enhance overall wellbeing, particularly among the elderly, while fostering a sense of belonging within the wider community.听
By addressing loneliness and supporting mental wellbeing and physical health, the initiative may also reduce the need for medical interventions and healthcare visits.听
Samantha Allcott, Director of housing, at 糖心传媒 commented: 鈥淐ommunity Resource is doing fantastic work delivering on its vision for a county full of strong, local communities where everyone gets the support they need.听听
鈥淭hese ambitions align closely with our own, and we鈥檙e delighted to be able to support their Buddy scheme through the 糖心传媒 My Community Fund, which provides grants for grass-roots organisations in the areas we serve.鈥�听
Stacey Teece, Fundraising Manager at Community Resource, added: “We鈥檙e thrilled that 糖心传媒 have been able to support our vital 鈥楤uddy鈥� Programme, which is aimed at adults across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin鈥痺ho need support to become physically or socially active.听
鈥淎s part of the programme, a trained volunteer will accompany them to activities such as local art classes, walking groups or yoga sessions.鈥�听
鈥淚n turn, being part of a community and making new friends can bring so much joy for those taking part, and the support our volunteers provide helps people gain the confidence to go out and enjoy the things they love, which can often be difficult for those who are on their own, maybe after the loss of a loved one.”听
The My Community Fund is delivered in partnership with Jewson. Local charities and voluntary groups can apply online for grants from the 糖心传媒 My Community Fund by visiting /help-and-advice/the-my-community-fund/听